Global medical education effort expands training opportunities

St George’s, University of London, has signed an agreement with a US university to begin a new education programme that allows medical students from each school to study at the partner institution.

Under the new partnership with Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, up to 30 St George’s international medical students will initially be selected to spend their clinical years at Marshall. Marshall students have the opportunity to opt for medical electives and research experiences at the school in London.

Professor Peter Kopelman, Principal of St George’s, University of London, said: “As the UK’s only university dedicated to medicine and healthcare we are absolutely committed to ensuring tomorrow’s doctors are fully equipped to deliver healthcare internationally.

“We welcome this agreement which provides students from both universities with a unique trans-Atlantic opportunity to gain greater understanding of global health issues.”

Beginning in August, the first cohort of St George’s international medical students will start clerkships and rotations at Marshall. Conversely, St George’s will be open to Marshall medical students to begin electives and special research experiences.

St George’s alumna Temi Adeshokan, who spent time last summer at Marshall as part of a medical elective, said: “I found it incredibly insightful talking to medical students and having discussions about the comparisons and differences between the provision and set-up of healthcare between the States and the UK and also the differences between our experiences of medical school.”

“This initiative was really an outgrowth of President Stephen Kopp’s vision to expose Marshall University students to a more global experience and is certainly representative of his legacy,” said Joseph I. Shapiro, M.D., Dean of the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine.

He added: “Many months ago, through the collaboration with INTO University Partnerships that operates on both Marshall and St George’s campuses, we were able to start a dialogue which has led to this revolutionary partnership. It will have amazing educational and cultural benefits for our students and those at St George’s.”

Bobby Miller, M.D., vice dean of medical education at Marshall said: “Marshall students who choose to study an elective or opt for a research experience at St George’s, will see a different model for health care and research. And of course, the influence of St George’s students, many of whom are from countries other than England, will provide a culturally diverse experience for our Marshall students here at home. ”

Under the programme, medical students from each school will complete the degree requirements outlined by their respective schools and will graduate with degrees from their home institution.